Publication:

Clinicians' perspectives on the use of fixed-dose combination of voglibose, glimepiride and metformin in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus in Indian settings

Background To gather expert opinion on the use of fixed dose combination (FDC) of voglibose, glimepiride and metformin in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Indian settings.

Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among clinicians using a structured questionnaire on current feedback, clinical observations and specialists' experiences in managing T2DM, with a special emphasis on the use of FDC voglibose, glimepiride and metformin in routine practice. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis, with graphs and pie charts for visualization.

Results The study included 472 clinicians, with 64% preferring to manage elevated postprandial glycemic average hemoglobin A1c (PGA1c) levels using an FDC of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs), sulfonylureas (SUs) and metformin. Voglibose therapy was reported by 73% of respondents as effective for PGA1c control, reducing glycemic variability, lowering hypoglycemic risk and being compatible with other oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). Approximately 66% of experts preferred voglibose + SU + metformin FDC for elderly patients with elevated PGA1c levels. Around 80% found the combination of voglibose, glimepiride and metformin effective in managing all aspects of the glycemic hexad, including fasting and postprandial glucose, HbA1c, nocturnal hypoglycemia, glycemic variability and overall hypoglycemia. Additionally, 66% highlighted its role in reducing visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Conclusions This study highlighted a strong clinician preference for voglibose, glimepiride and metformin FDC in T2DM management due to its effectiveness in controlling post-prandial blood glucose, reducing glycemic variability, minimizing hypoglycemia and improving the glycemic hexad, especially in elderly and high-risk patients.